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Telescope Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AURA

STScI Deputy Director

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$275K - $315K/yr

The Space Telescope Science Institute is operated by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA) and is based on the Johns Hopkins University Homewood campus in Baltimore ...

Caltech

EMC Engineer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$97K - $160K/yr

The telescope will conduct a broad range of research, including the study of the formation of ... facility operated by Caltech for research in radio astronomy, located near Bishop in central ...

NSF's NOIRLab

Electrical Technician 4

Hilo, HI · On-site

... telescope electrical systems that enable world-class astronomical research at the Gemini ... Job Level Summary The Electrical Technician provides technical support with maintaining, operating ...

NOAO

Electrical Technician 4

Hilo, HI

... telescope electrical systems that enable world-class astronomical research at the Gemini ... Job Level Summary The Electrical Technician provides technical support with maintaining, operating ...

Bay Ltd.

Crane Operator (Kermit, TX)

Kermit, TX · On-site

JOB SUMMARY The Crane Operator Heavy1 responsible for operating a mobile or stationary crane to ... Operate specialized machinery such as telescope booms, lattice booms, all terrain, Rough Terrain ...

AURA

Electrical Technician 4

Hilo, HI · On-site

... telescope electrical systems that enable world-class astronomical research at the Gemini ... Job Level Summary The Electrical Technician provides technical support with maintaining, operating ...

Bay

Crane Operator Heavy1 - West Texas

Pharr, TX · On-site

Crane Operator Heavy The Crane Operator Heavy is responsible for operating a mobile or stationary ... Operate specialized machinery such as telescope booms, lattice booms, all terrain, Rough Terrain ...

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All JobsTelescope Operator Jobs

Telescope Operator information

How to become a telescope operator?

To become a telescope operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical training or experience in astronomy, optics, or related fields. Skills in operating complex equipment, attention to detail, and sometimes certification in astronomy or technical operations are beneficial. On-the-job training is common, and familiarity with telescope control software and maintenance procedures is often required.

What are some common challenges faced by Telescope Operators on the job?

Telescope Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise alignment of complex equipment, troubleshooting technical issues during observation sessions, and adapting quickly to changing weather conditions that can affect data quality. They may also need to coordinate closely with astronomers and research teams to adjust observation schedules or prioritize specific projects. Flexibility, patience, and technical proficiency help operators manage these obstacles while ensuring that valuable astronomical data is captured accurately and efficiently during narrow observation windows.

What is a Telescope Operator job?

A Telescope Operator is responsible for controlling and maintaining telescopes at observatories or research facilities. They ensure the proper functioning of the equipment, assist astronomers in capturing observations, and troubleshoot technical issues. Their duties may also include monitoring environmental conditions, calibrating instruments, and managing data collection. Telescope Operators typically work in collaboration with scientists, engineers, and technicians to support astronomical research. The role requires technical proficiency, attention to detail, and often a background in physics, astronomy, or engineering.

How much do you make working at an observatory?

Telescope operators at observatories typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced roles or those with specialized skills may earn higher salaries, especially in research or government institutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Telescope Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Telescope Operator, you need solid knowledge of astronomy, experience with optical and digital imaging systems, and typically a degree in physics, astronomy, or a related field. Familiarity with telescope control software, data acquisition systems, and sometimes certifications in advanced equipment handling are highly valued. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork are key soft skills in this role. These capabilities are crucial for ensuring precise observations, equipment safety, and successful collaboration with scientists and technical staff.

How much does a telescope operator make?

Telescope operators typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the equipment they operate. Advanced roles or those working at research facilities may have higher salaries, especially with specialized skills and certifications in astronomy or technical maintenance.

What does a telescope operator do?

A telescope operator is responsible for operating and maintaining telescopes used for astronomical observations or research. They set up equipment, monitor instrument performance, and ensure accurate data collection, often working in observatories or research facilities. Knowledge of astronomy, technical skills, and attention to detail are essential for this role.
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Telescope Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Telescope Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 8% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Senior Software Engineer

Senior Software Engineer

Association Of Universities For Research In Astronomy

Maui, HI

$125K - $167K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

The NSF Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope (DKIST), operated by the National Solar Observatory (NSO), is the world’s largest and most advanced solar telescope, designed to help answer fundamental questions about our Sun and its complex magnetic fields. DKIST, which completed construction and began operations in November 2021 on the summit of Haleakala, Maui, Hawaii is a major program within the NSO. The NSO, an NSF national research and development center dedicated to solar science, is managed by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA). AURA, a consortium of 49 U.S. institutions and 3 international affiliates, operates world-class astronomical observatories. Its role is to establish, nurture, and promote public observatories and facilities that drive innovative astronomical research.

We are seeking a Senior Software Engineer to provide technical leadership and hands-on development for our High-Level Software (HLS) systems supporting advanced telescope and instrumentation platforms. This role will solve complex technical challenges, guide engineers and partners, and contribute directly to system design, development, and operations at the DKIST facility.

You will play a key role in delivering robust, scalable software systems that support scientific discovery, collaborating closely with cross-functional teams across engineering and operations.

Essential Functions
Technical Leadership & Development
  • Design, develop, test, deploy, and maintain high-level software systems for telescope and instrument applications
  • Lead complex engineering efforts and provide technical direction to team members and collaborators
  • Architect and implement scalable, multi-threaded, distributed systems
  • Support system integration across observatory platforms
Collaboration & Execution
  • Partner with engineering teams, operations staff, subcontractors, and stakeholders to deliver solutions
  • Plan and execute work aligned with technical, schedule, and budget requirements
  • Identify and resolve complex problems with minimal direction
  • Recommend and implement improvements to systems and processes
Documentation & Quality
  • Maintain comprehensive documentation (design specs, APIs, test plans, user guides)
  • Ensure high-quality software delivery through testing and best practices
  • Support CI/CD pipelines and automated testing frameworks
Operations Support
  • Provide software support for summit and science operations as needed
  • Participate in system upgrades and new initiatives
Compliance & Safety
  • Adhere to safety standards and organizational policies
  • Ensure compliance with government award requirements (if applicable)
  • Promote a respectful, inclusive, and collaborative work environment
Requirements
  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
  • 10+ years of software development experience, including:
    • 5+ years with Java (including Swing)
    • Experience building multi-threaded, distributed systems
    • At least 1 year of Python
  • Experience with Linux-based development environments
  • Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to work from high-level objectives
  • Experience with databases (PostgreSQL or similar)
  • Familiarity with Agile development practices
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills

This position involves access to technical data that is subject to U.S. export control laws, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Pursuant to these regulations, only U.S. persons (as defined in the regulations) are eligible for access to the controlled technical data. A "U.S. person" includes a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or person granted asylum or refugee status. Applicants must be eligible to access export-controlled information as defined by U.S. law.

Preferences
  • Experience in scientific, engineering, or large-scale technical environments
  • Knowledge of distributed control systems or observatory/telescope systems
  • Experience with:
    • Middleware frameworks (e.g., EPICS, TANGO, DDS, ICE)
    • High-throughput data systems (GB/s scale)
    • CI/CD pipelines and automated testing
    • Cloud platforms (AWS, GCP)
    • Container technologies (Docker, Kubernetes)
  • Familiarity with motion control systems (e.g., Beckhoff, Omron, Delta Tau)
  • Experience managing vendors or technical contractors
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
  • Primarily office-based with extended computer use
  • Occasional lifting (up to 25 lbs)
  • Periodic work at high-elevation observatory site (~10,000 ft)
  • Frequent communication and collaboration with team members

Salary Range: $125,000 - $167,000 per year. The final salary will depend on skills, qualifications and experience.

AURA offers an excellent benefits package including paid time off and retirement plan contributions, competitive salary commensurate with experience, and a very attractive work environment. Details on benefits can be found at Benefits by Location - Aura Human Resources 

Apply by July 5, 2026 for priority consideration. This position will remain open until it is filled. Please submit a cover letter and a CV or resume, PDF files preferred. Please name any attachments with the following format: LastName DocName.

Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can request assistance here.

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